§ 29. Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the labour disturbances which have taken place on certain sugar estates in Jamaica.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsYes, Sir. There have been several strikes this year. Two have been complicated by rivalry between unions. The Trades Union Congress of Jamaica claims representation of the workers on several estates. But since 1941 the Sugar Manufacturers' Association has had agreements with the Bustamante Industrial Trades Union under which that Union has been accorded sole bargaining rights in the industry. The strike at Caymanas sugar factory was settled after a few days when the Bustamante Industrial Trades Union ordered workers to resume. The strike at Worthy Park, where the management has refused to negotiate with the Trades Union Congress, is still in progress.
§ Mr. GammansWould my right hon. Friend say whether, as a result of these disturbances, there have been any acts of violence?
§ Mr. GriffithsI think very few and very slight.